Much loved UK largest indoor theme park in Europe closed forever after 20 years
Delighting North East families from 1988, this huge theme park was the place to be until it closed its doors forever after 20 years
Taking a family shopping trip to an entirely new dimension, this remarkable attraction was once the largest indoor theme park in Europe, nestled within retail centre where parents could shop to their hearts' content while the children enjoyed endless fun.
Open from 1988, the vast indoor amusement park in Gateshead, England, created by John Hall, drew inspiration from the Fantasyland park at Canada's West Edmonton Mall — until it closed its doors suddenly in 2008, after two decades of entertainment.
Metroland launched at the Metrocentre in Gateshead and instantly caused a sensation, dazzling visitors with vivid colours and a cacophony of sound, featuring rollercoasters, rides and games for youngsters to revel in. Representing a £20 million investment in the region, it completely transformed what a family day out meant for local residents.
Inside, visitors could experience the Wonderful Wave-Swinger ride alongside a waltzer, a pirate ship, toadstool seats and even a miniature railway. An indoor arcade and a generously sized playground featuring climbing frames, nets, slides and a hall of mirrors also awaited eager youngsters.
Over the years, the park underwent numerous changes, most notably when the enormous red rollercoaster was rebranded as 'The New Roller Coaster' following a revamp and a fresh coat of purple paint in 1996.
Children could be spotted running wild and having the time of their lives, spending hours on rides for just a few pounds while their parents browsed the shops. The aroma of candyfloss and hot dogs permeated the atmosphere, and for countless visitors, their formative memories were carved into the fabric of this super centre, leaving them heartbroken to witness its departure.
The venue also contained a food court with a Burger King, transforming it into a major destination for guests and providing little incentive to venture elsewhere.
Its closing chapter arrived in 2008, when it marked its goodbye to Gateshead by staging a farewell weekend from April 20-21 where fans could gain entry for merely £5 with unlimited ride access. However, once the doors closed at 8pm, they never reopened.
In a Facebook tribute celebrating Metroland's heritage, North East Family Adventures shared several photographs of the former location, and guests eagerly recalled their experiences.
One person said: "Metrocentre has no soul now ,lots of empty stores we used to spend hours there with family, now we go to shop, then home."
Another posted: "Good place many moons ago, it's a disgrace now, not a place I like to shop, no atmosphere."
Meanwhile, one person added: "They broke it... took its soul and left it to rot. It's a chore going to the metro now. Go straight in, get what you need, and then leave. Mostly try and avoid going these days."
The attraction's demise stemmed from complications with leases and redevelopment proposals, as the location was anticipated to offer family entertainment, albeit on a considerably reduced scale.
Today, there exists a cinema, dining establishments and family attractions, yet none of it truly captures the enchantment of the cherished Metroland.
